Decriminalisation of abortion takes one step closer after historic vote

Protesters from pro-choice group ‘Abortion Rights’ reacting to the vote (Picture: Alishia Abodunde/Getty Images)

The decriminalisation of abortion is a step closer in England and Wales after MPs voted to include it in a major government bill.

The Crime and Policing Bill has passed through parliament, making it legal for women to end their pregnancy outside current legal limits.

MPs voted in favour of decriminalising women ending their own pregnancies by 379 to 137, a majority of 242.